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Mia was born in Croatia with a genetic disorder called hypochondroplasia, which slows cell growth and causes short stature.

Because of her condition, Mia had a hard time making friends. She often felt left out.

“Kids can be very mean if you’re different,” says Mia’s dad, Ivan. “For years, we took Mia to different specialists in Europe without getting the help she needed. I researched endocrinologists all over the world. All signs pointed us to Children’s National Hospital.”

Dr. Dauber, chief of endocrinology at Children’s National, encouraged the family to join a clinical trial that could help Mia.

In Mia’s first year participating, she grew more than 3 inches. And her confidence has soared.

“This growth has been life-changing,” says Ivan.

Mia’s story highlights the innovative care donors like you make possible. Thank you for helping fund more than 2,000 clinical research projects like the one Mia accessed with your support last year.